Her Necessary Husband
Sharon Swan
From HousekeeperTo Honeymooner?If someone had told Jenna Lorenzo that she'd be floating down the aisle to wed the biggest catch in Harmonyafter applying for a position as Ross Hayward's housekeeper, no lessshe'd have laughed her head off! But here she wasadorned in an antique wedding gown, shielding a scandalous past, moments away from pledging her heart to the high-powered family man who'd once had a starring role in her adolescent fantasies. Exchanging breathtaking vows with Ross was a fairy-tale dream come trueexcept for one thing. He wassigh!only in it for convenience' sake. What's a hopelessly smitten Cinderella bride to do? Make her dashing groom fall head over heels in love, that's what!Welcome to Harmony: A little town with lots of surprises!
Id like to kiss you.
The blunt words were out before Ross could consider their tone. But he wouldnt call them back even if he could have.
Oh Jenna managed.
I mean, it seems logical. Right, and physical attraction has nothing to do with it, a more candid part of him mocked. That way, well have a better basis to, ah, make our decision.
So you havent reconsidered? Youre still thinking about marriage?
I am, he assured her. But right now Id just like to kiss you.
He lowered his mouth to hers, taking in her subtle floral scent and reminding himself that this was only a kiss. But that didnt mean he couldnt savor the moment. At last he forced himself to lift his head, drop the hand still cupped around her silky-smooth chin and take a step back. Im prepared to suggest that we take thisall the way.
Jenna stared up at him, her own breathing far from even. All the way?
To the altar.
Her Necessary Husband
Sharon Swan
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
For my agent, Pam Hopkins,
with many thanks for all her support.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Born and raised in Chicago, Sharon Swan once dreamed of dancing for a living. Instead, she surrendered to lifes more practical aspects, settled for an office job, concentrated on typing and being a Chicago Bears fan. Sharon never seriously considered writing as a career until she moved to the Phoenix area and met Pierce Brosnan at a local shopping mall. It was a chance meeting that changed her life, because she found herself thinking, what if? What if two fictional characters had met the same way? That formed the basis for her next novel, and shes now cheerfully addicted to writing contemporary romance and playing what if?
Sharon loves to hear from readers. You can write to her at P.O. Box 21324, Mesa, AZ 85277.
Books by Sharon Swan
HARLEQUIN AMERICAN ROMANCE
912COWBOYS AND CRADLES
928HOME-GROWN HUSBAND * (#litres_trial_promo)
939HUSBANDS, HUSBANDSEVERYWHERE!* (#litres_trial_promo)
966FOUR-KARAT FIANCE
983HER NECESSARY HUSBAND* (#litres_trial_promo)
Contents
Chapter One (#u0db4cfbc-85c0-5b41-9692-0fbad247ddd3)
Chapter Two (#u81ca3a38-b930-558f-aea7-08e07cec84ef)
Chapter Three (#uefa84d6c-3a90-5405-8cad-d8dc2f9cf177)
Chapter Four (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Five (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Six (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Seven (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Eight (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Nine (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Ten (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Eleven (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Twelve (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter One
Something told Jenna Lorenzo that Ross Hayward would not be hiring her as his live-in housekeeper the minute he opened the front door.
Only moments earlier shed been admiring that door, painted the palest of yellows, and the wreath of sage green leaves topped with delicate dried flowers that hung under a high arch gracefully etched into the smooth wood. Like the rest of the modern two-story home built of narrow bricks shaded a pristine dove gray, the door was a tribute to conservative elegance. Even the well-trimmed front lawn with its neatly shaped borders of low plants sporting a quiet mix of early September blooms was designed to bid visitors a gracious welcome.
Serene, Jenna thought. That was the word that came to mind. She had never workedand certainly never livedanywhere quite like this place.
And she wouldnt be working, or living, here. The polite smile that didnt quite reach the deep-set navy eyes of the tall man standing in front of her had her all but positive of that.
Come in, Jenna, he said in a low voice shed by no means forgotten from the initial interview hed conducted several days earlier at Dewitts Diner. Despite the business nature of the lunch, shed felt at ease in the familiar setting, having indulged in one of the downtown diners juicy hamburgers along with a mound of crisp fries many times with her friends when she was growing up in Harmony, Arizona.
She didnt, however, feel anywhere near that same level of ease right now. The truth was that when it came to casually comfortable surroundings, the Hayward home was an entirely different matter.
Just how different Jenna realized full well the moment she stepped into the entryway and found herself confronted by a landscape of sheer white. Carpet, walls, ceiling. Even what living room furniture she could see through an arched opening at one side of the hall featured a white-on-white design. Only a group of pastel prints simply framed in silver and hung at well-spaced intervals provided any hint of true color.
Everything sparkled in the sun slanting through lacy white curtains. Nothing was out of place. It was a scene straight out of a trendy home magazine.
But this was real life, and there were children living here. How in the world does it stay clean? Jenna wondered out loud.
Weve learned to be careful, the man at her side said.
The attractive man at her side, she couldnt help thinking as they made their way to the living room. At one time, as had many girls in town, shed had a major crush on the Golden Boywhich was how her adolescent eyes had come to view himwith his sun-streaked brown hair and flashing grin. Somehow it had only seemed natural when hed started dating Cynthia Morgan during his high school days.
A slim blonde with the lightest of blue eyes, Cynthia had swiftly become the other half of the Golden Couplea couple some had envied for their popularity. Theyd married shortly after both graduated from college, Jenna had learned from friends on her recent return to Harmony. It had been, by all accounts, an excellent marriage, one that had quickly produced a beautiful baby daughter, and eventually another.
And then, almost three years ago, Ross Hayward had tragically lost not only his wife but also his mother when the car Cynthia had been driving skidded off a snowy road and crashed.
Have a seat, he said. Im glad you were able to spare me some time this morning.
Jenna settled herself on a long sofa while her host chose an overstuffed chair across from her. A chrome-and-glass coffee table with smoothly curved lines as quietly refined as the rest of the room occupied the space between them.
Actually, I was waiting for your call, she admitted. When you said youd get back to me, I wasnt sure if youd want to meet again. And when he had called her at the home of a friend where she was currently staying and invited her to come over, shed imagined she was well on her way to being offered the housekeepers job. Until shed seen his expression.
Now even his polite smile had faded. I meant to get in touch sooner, he said, but I had some things to consider.
What things? Jenna couldnt help wondering as she folded her arms across the front of her deep tangerine pantsuit. No ready answer came to mind, but there was no denying that her prospective employermost likely ex-prospective employerlooked far from overjoyed at the moment. He also didnt look quite as much like a businessman today.
Then again, it was Saturday. Even the top guy at Hayward Investments was allowed to dress down on the weekends, she supposed. Not that his cream-colored knit shirt and well-ironed khaki pants were anywhere near as casual as faded denim, but the outfit still displayed some impressive sights. Strong shoulders snugly outlined by smooth cotton and forearms left bare to reveal lean muscles dotted with swirls of crisp hair readily indicated that this man didnt spend all his time behind a desk.
Jenna dropped a brief glance down, half expecting to find gleaming leather loafers to complete the picture. Instead she saw no shoes at all, merely dark socks.
We generally take off our shoes when we come in, he told her, obviously noticing the direction her gaze had taken.
Ah, yes, the white carpet, she summed up with a nod. She dropped another look down, this time at her black pumps.
Youre a guest, so you get to keep yours on.
The wry statement had her chuckling. Thanks, she said.
Her host cleared his throat and leaned back in his chair. I know your qualifications are top-notch.
ButHe didnt say it; she heard it, anyway. And what more could she say? Hed checked her references before their lunch. Three couples in the Denver metropolitan area combining dual careers with a bustling family life had confirmed that shed run their busy households and done a bang-up job of it at a time when theyd needed someone like her most.
Jenna could only agree.
During the seven years since shed left Nevadawhere her father had relocated her family when she was sixteenfor the high plains of Colorado, she had put talents learned at her mothers side to good use. Combining them with her own love of tackling new challenges, she had built a solid career for herself despite the lack of a college degreea career shed still be pursuing in the Denver area if the urge hadnt hit to revisit her birthplace in Arizona during an unexpected break between jobs.
And then thered been no question of a permanent return. As shed come around the last curve on a winding highway lined with tall pines and gazed down on the small, sun-splashed city rimmed by a chain of low mountains northeast of Phoenix, something inside her had recognized it ashome. After more than a dozen years she was home, and she meant to stay.
Look, she said, deciding it was time to stop skirting the issue, Ill admit Im more than getting the feeling that for some reason you dont think Im right for this position.
And maybe it wasnt right for her, she mused, all at once aware of precisely how attractive this specific member of the male species wasnot to the female half of the population in general, which was probably a given, but to her in particular.
Good heavens, she couldnt still have a crush on Ross Hayward, former Golden Boy. That would be ridiculous.
Why dont we just declare this visit over? she suggested, then slanted a sidelong look out a curtained window and waited for the expected agreement.
Rather than simply concurring, however, the man seated across from her held back a grimace at her abruptly brisk tone. He hadnt meant, Ross thought, to be quite so obvious about having reservations where this woman was concernedreservations resulting from a recent conversation he had no trouble recalling.
People are bound to talk if a widowed man still in his early thirties hires a single woman in her twenties as a live-in housekeeper, Tom Kennedy, Harmonys veteran police chief, had pointed out when Ross had stopped by police headquarters for a brief chat after his initial interview with Jenna. And hard on the heels of that statement, Ross remembered, the longtime friend of the Hayward family had gone on to share some news.
Normally, Id say its your choice on whether to just ignore the gossip, Tom had told him. But voters gossip, too, and you know our mayor is pushing seventy, and Ive heard he may not decide to run again. That means we could wind up with another Hayward in the mayors office next year, provided youre interested.
And he was interested. Ross couldnt deny that. His grandfather had been the last Mayor Hayward, and it was a sure bet that the old man, rest his stubbornly upright soul, would have counted on his direct descendant and the sole grandson to bear the Hayward name to try to follow in his footsteps. Especially since the old mans only son had already left a black mark on the pages of the family history.
Ross knew it could be argued that he had been an upstanding citizen of Harmony right from the day hed been born into one of the founding families first to settle the city. For generations most Haywards had been dedicated to getting things done and had won respect for their achievements. As time passed, some residents had even come to expect Haywards to set an example of what good stock and hard work could accomplish.
What no one had expected a Hayward man to do was to walk out on his wife of many years and head off to Southern California to live the life of an aging playboy. Which was exactly what his father had done, Ross thought grimly. And if he hoped to be mayor in spite of Martin Haywards hardly admirable behavior, it could only be smart to look after his own good standing in the community.
So, taking all of that into account, hed been having a devil of a time making up his mind about whether to offer Jenna Lorenzo the job.
There was no question that he needed to fill the positionand fairly soon, what with Myra Hastings having to leave at the end of the month to care for her elderly mother full-time. But replacing his middle-aged housekeeper with a younger person who, while perhaps no true beauty, was still a striking-looking woman, might not be the wisest course hed come to recognize.
And now that woman had just handed him an easy out.
The thing was, for some reason he found himself reluctant to take it. Not yet, anyway.
Lets not be too quick to throw in the towel, he told her.
A fast frown formed on his visitors brow as she pulled her gaze away from the window. I dont understand. Either you want to hire me or
Daddy! a young voice wailed, breaking into the conversation. A rosy-cheeked blonde dressed in a pink cotton top with matching pants soon appeared in the doorway to the living room. She was a six-year-old bundle of usually cheerful energy. Yet despite her angelic looks, Ross knew full well she could sometimes be as mischievous as a pint-size imp.
My daughter Katie, he explained to his guest before fixing his attention on his youngest child. Whats wrong, sunshine?
Katie brushed back a small tear as she ran to him. Pandora lost her hair again! She held out a doll wearing a well-worn yellow satin gown and sporting a jumble of deep auburn curls.
Ross studied the object in question. It was a collectors item more than a childs toy, but his mother had presented it to Katie on her third birthday, anyway, with the warning to be careful when she played with it. Reality had, of course, stepped in; the doll had clearly seen better days. Nevertheless, Katie continued to favor it over most of her other toys.
Well try to glue it on one more time, he said, lifting his gaze from the delicate porcelain forehead sadly lacking a wide fringe of bangs. Wheres the part that fell off?
I dont know. Myra said it could be in the vacuum cleaner, cause she cleaned this morning. Katies lower lip trembled. Can you get it out, Daddy?
Ross held back a sigh. Even if I could find it, he explained as gently as possible, it would probably be in too bad a shape to save it.
But you could, Jenna pointed out as she entered the discussion, cut off some of whats left and make a new hairdo.
Him? Provide a doll with an entirely different hairdo? Ross couldnt even imagine it. Im not sure I could do that if my life depended on it, he admitted dryly.
Could you? Katie asked, spinning around.
Ross sat forward. Katie, this is Ms. Lorenzo, he said, completing the introduction.
Jenna smiled softly. Pleased to meet you, Katie. May I see your doll for a minute?
Sure. Katie took a seat beside Jenna and handed Pandora over. Do you know how to do hair stuff? She studied the woman next to her with a doubtful tilt of her head.
Mmm-hmm. Jennas smile took a knowing slant. I wear my hair straight back like this, she explained, smoothing a hand over the thick coil at the nape of her neck, because its long, and this is the best way to keep it neat.
How long?
Almost to my waist.
Wow. Katies eyes went wide. How do you wash it?
It takes time, Jenna allowed. She inspected the doll. One of my sisters has hair this color. And another one has naturally curly hair she keeps short, like yours.
Katie folded her small hands in her lap. How many sisters and brothers have you got?
No brothers. Three younger sisters. And I helped all three fix their hair while they were growing up.
Katie mulled that over. Maybe Pandora could wear her hair like the twins on the TV show I watch sometimes after school.
You might be on to something there, Jenna agreed after a moment, clearly recognizing the show in question when Ross had no clue. Myra wouldnt, either, he knew, despite the fact that she was here every day when his daughters got home from school.
His current housekeeper was a fine person in her own right who cooked good, healthy meals, kept his house sparkling clean and could be trusted without question to watch over his children whenever he was away. Yet, for all of Myras virtues, taking time from her busy day to watch a kids television show with Katie on occasion would simply not have occurred to her.
But it obviously would to Jenna.
While a spirited discussion of how the new hairdo might be best achieved continued, Ross found himself wondering how his visitor would look with her own midnight-dark hair spilling past her shoulders and down her back.
Exotic, he decided. Yet classically female, as well. In fact, her oval-shaped face with its straight nose, high cheekbones and fine, creamy skinnot to mention those chestnut-brown eyes that slanted up slightly at the cornerswould probably look right at home in a painting by one of the old masters.
As to the rest of her, he couldnt make out enough to judge. Both of the tailored outfits hed seen her in so far were by no means formfitting. Still, although she was several inches shorter than his own six-feet-plus, petite wasnt the word that came to mind. Not when he suspected that a full figure with plenty of curves might be lurking out of sight.
Whatever the case, shed been in his thoughts ever since their initial meeting. Something about her had captured his attention, that was plain. Something that might turn out to have little to do with her qualifications as housekeeper, if he wanted to investigate the matter further.
One thing for certain, when it came to her qualifications, she was the right choice to run his household, as hed concluded soon after shed offered her credentials. If hed had the least lingering doubts about that, the way she was currently chatting so easily with Katie would have routed them once and for all.
Too bad Tom Kennedy had hit the nail on the head, Ross thought, recognizing that more than ever as his hooded gaze silently told him in no uncertain terms just how striking Jenna Lorenzo washow vivid, howalive she looked against a backdrop of almost total white. People were bound to talk if she moved in and took Myras place. Despite Harmonys genuinely friendly atmosphere, gossip was a fact of life.
And the truth was that even if he chose to ignore the gossip, he was a long way from certain hed be doing the fair thing by subjecting this woman to it.
Logic said to just tell her face to face that it wouldnt work out and to thank her for her trouble, which hed undeniably been of more than half a mind to do when shed arrived on his doorstep. On the other hand, something that went beyond pure logic was still urging him not to let her go so easily.
Ross frowned at the knowledge that he had to make up his mind before his prospective housekeeper decided hed left her hanging long enough and walked out on him.
JENNA SOMEHOW FOUND herself seated at a round, glass-topped kitchen table, a pair of shiny scissors and a small tube of clear glue set in front of her on a gray-and-white-checked place mat. Moments earlier shed learned that the deep blue eyes belonging to the youngest member of the Hayward household could be very persuasive when attempting a woeful look. Even before Katie had followed it up with a whispered, Please, Jenna had suspected that her immediate future would include treating Pandora to a new hairdo.
Probably only an objection from the man now seated beside her would have changed her fate, she reflected as she placed a silver-gray linen dishtowel trimmed in lace around the dolls neck. Instead, Ross had merely suggested that they adjourn to the rear of the house, where hed again played host, offering refreshment and providing what materials she needed to get the job done. Then hed settled into a chrome-backed chair in his not surprisingly gleaming kitchen and seemed to sink into his thoughts, as he had during most of their time in the living room.
What was he thinking so hard about? Jenna had to wonder. And was she going to be offered the position or not?
Myras gonna be surprised to see how Pandora looks when she gets back. Katie tucked small feet snuggled into pink socks under her and leaned in from her seat at Jennas other side. Do you start cutting now?
Mmm-hmm. Jenna sat the doll on the table, picked up the scissors and carefully began her task, her eyes narrowing for a better look. Her thoughts drifted to the brief meeting that had taken place in the hallway outside the kitchen just before Myra Hastings, a tall, thin woman with short salt-and-pepper hair, had left to visit her elderly mother who remained hospitalized after a stroke.
The housekeepers greeting could hardly be classified as warm, not when shed explained, oh, so primly, that it took a great deal of effort to keep a home like this in tiptop shape. Plainly she knew, although Ross hadnt said as much during his introduction, that Jenna had applied to replace her. And the older woman wasnt exactly impressed. The question was: how much would Myras opinion count with her employer?
Certainly he didnt seem any happier now than he had earlier. No, less, Jenna concluded, slanting a glance his way. But even with the corners of his mouth turned down and a deep frown marring his brow, he still looked good to her.
Probably too good.
There, I think thats enough off, she told Katie, mustering a cheerful tone for the little girls sake. Now well glue on some new bangs and cut them on an angle, just like the television twins wear theirs.
When the job was finally done, Katie clapped her hands and wasted no time in offering her judgment. Pandora looks neat!
She looks very nice, another young voice politely chimed in from behind Jenna. Startled, she turned around to find herself being calmly studied by light, clear blue eyes, a sight that instantly reminded her of the woman Ross Hayward had married. This slender-as-a-reed girl with straight, shoulder-length blond hair could only be Cynthia Morgans child.
The man of the house proceeded to introduce his eldest daughter, Caroline, who shook hands with the quiet courtesy of someone far older than her own ten years. Again he made no reference as to why their visitor was there. This time it had Jenna more than suspecting that the children werent aware of her status as a potential employee, as Myra plainly had been. They probably thought she was an acquaintance of their fathers.
Or a girlfriend.
No, not hardly, she informed herself in the next breath, belatedly reminded of what seemed to be common knowledge in Harmonythere had been no woman in Ross Haywards life since his wifes death. As far as his children were concerned, their current visitor was no doubt a friend, and the most casual kind, at that. Which was fine with her, Jenna thought. And she would be fine, as well, regardless of whether she got this job or not.
I recently moved back to Harmony after being away for several years, she told Caroline, summoning a smile, and Im very glad I did.
The girls own soft smile broke through. Its a good place to live, isnt it?
Yes.
Its cool, Katie added.
Caroline straightened a fold of the powder-blue shirtwaist dress she wore with ballerina-style blue slippers and looked at her sister. Cool means the weather, she said in a small lecture. It has nothing to do with a city.
Does, too, Katie quickly countered, lifting her little chin.
Well acquainted with how easily sibling arguments could erupt, although she couldnt imagine her own lively family ever butting heads over something as formal as a question of grammar, Jenna stepped into the breech. Whatever the case, she said, Harmony happens to be where I was born a loo-ong time ago.
Ross leaned back in his chair and found his mood lightening as the stretched-out word, issued with an exaggerated flutter of his visitors dark lashes, had both girls abruptly giggling. The sound was music to his ears.
Yes, he reflected with assurance, this was exactly what the daughters he loved more than anything in the world needed, and what had been behind his thought to hire a younger housekeeper in the first place. They needed someone who could joke with them on occasion as well as care for them. Someone who could offer a female perspective on things and fill a gap he couldnt hope to fill. His daughters could only benefit from having a young, vibrant woman in their lives, no question about it.
And so would he, he knew. But in his case, it would have to go beyond having someone around to take care of his household. He wouldnt satisfy any of the private needs that had begun to build inside him by hiring a housekeeper, any housekeeper. He needed something else. Something more.
Hell, what he really needed was a wife.
Which, in his more candid moments, hed been telling himself for a while now. Not only would it give his daughters a motherly influence and provide some physical comforts for himself, it could also lead to more children, maybe even the son he would desperately like to have while he was young enough to do a good job of being a father to an active boy. Marrying again, and sooner rather than later, might well be the best solution all around, hed conceded more than once. Trouble was, no single woman of his acquaintance even stirred his interestexcept the one who had recently returned to Harmony. The more time he spent with Jenna Lorenzo, the more he was beginning to recognize that fact.
Daddy, are you that old?
Ross brought his attention back to the discussion, realizing hed missed a turn in the conversation. What? was all he could ask in response to Katies question.
Ms. Lorenzo said you were older than she is, Caroline explained in her usual calm manner.
Way older is what she said, Katie tacked on.
He shot Jenna a look and found her eyes lit with amusement, as though she hadnt been able to resist that little zinger. If four years is way older, he said dryly, then I suppose I am.
With that issue cleared up, Katie jumped to her feet. Im gonna put Pandora to bed for a nap.
Jenna removed the towel from the dolls neck. Better let her sit up awhile longer to make sure the glues set.
Okay. Ill sit her in her rocking chair.
Caroline reached for the scissors and glue. Ill put these away, Dad.
Ross nodded to his eldest child. Thanks, princess.
You have two wonderful daughters, Jenna told him when the children had left.
Im in total agreement on that score. He sat forward and rested his forearms on the table. And what can I say but thank you?
She switched around to fully face him and frankly met his gaze. You could say whether Im going to be offered the job.
Well, this was it, he thought. Despite her qualifications, he knew the chances of that particular relationship working out were slim to none. Added to his earlier reservations about offering her the position, seeing her in his home had led to his viewing her in a different, and far more personal, light. The sheer truth was that hed become too aware of her as a woman, and a desirable one at that, to regard her as merely an employee.
He released a gusty breath. No, Im afraid not.
All right, Jenna said after a silent second. She gave him the briefest of smiles as she scooted back her chair. You must have things to do. I wont take up any more of your time.
Ross knew he could have summoned a courteous smile in return and seen her to the door. With his contacts, he could even have offered to help her find another job. And he would, in fact, have done both without hesitationif he could have actually stood back and watched Jenna Lorenzo walk out of his daughters lives. Out of his life.
But he couldnt.
Every instinct he hadinstincts that had served him well in the business worldhad begun to tell him in no uncertain terms that he could only benefit from doing his damnedest to further another sort of relationship with this striking-looking woman. A private relationship.
If youll give me a few more minutes, he said before she could step away from the table, Id like to discuss, not the housekeepers position, but something else entirely.
Her brow furrowed as she looked down at him. What else is there to discuss?
He met her question with a blunt one of his own, deciding to just plunge in. Would you consider going out with me?
Even as he watched, a blank expression wiped every trace of emotion from her face. Moments passed before she issued yet another question.
I came here to talk about a job, and youre asking me out on a date?
Yes. Jeez, how did he put what he was thinking into words when he was still groping his way through it in his own mind? But it could lead tosomething more. And I dont mean an affair, he added before she could misunderstand him.
While his body wouldnt have protested muchnot with this particular femalehe knew that an affair was the last thing he wanted to start. It wouldnt provide what his children deserved to have in their lives. Or what he needed beyond the rewards of a purely physical relationship, for that matter. Because, if he chose to look to what the future might bring and view things from a strictly practical standpoint, taking a lover also wouldnt help in conducting a mayoral campaign.
No, it all boiled down to the fact that what he had to have to meet both his current and potential needs was a
Then what do you mean by, ah, something more? Jenna asked, her tone wary as she broke into his thoughts.
What I mean is He met her gaze, noting that her frown had not only reappeared but deepened. She hardly looked ready to go out with him at the moment, that was for sure.
If he didnt get on with this, he told himself, shed be headed for the door. He hadnt missed the barest hint of temper glinting in her eyes; he had a temper himself, although he seldom displayed it. It also hadnt escaped his notice that in addition to her growing irritation with his drawn-out explanation, she was fast coming to the conclusion that he was acting strange.
And after he said what he was about to sayHell, she just might think he was flat-out crazy.
But he was saying it, anyway.
If we started seeing each other and it goes well, he told her, measuring out the words, how would you feel about possibly marrying me?
Chapter Two
Jennas jaw dropped. In the next instant she sank back into her chair and hit the seat with enough force to snap her mouth closed and rattle her teeth. Then she stilled completely and groped to take in what she had just heard.
How would she feel about marrying him? Him? Ross Hayward, once half of the Golden Couple, talking about walking down the aisle again with her. Her? No, he couldnt have meant it!
I must, she said, finding her voice at last, have misunderstood you. You werentyou couldnt have beentalking about the two of us andmarriage.
He studied her for moment. I was.
Now she had to suck in a breath, a big one. As her lungs filled, a short study of her own told her that he really did mean it. His watchful expression was far too serious to reach any other conclusion. Good Lord. Even in her wildest adolescent dreams, shed never imagined that this man would ever consider asking her to marry him.
Then again, he wasnt asking now, she reminded herself as the brain she normally put to good use began to recover from the undeniable jolt to its circuits. Hed mentioned possibly getting married, which was a far cry from an actual proposal.
Maybe Id better go into a few more details as to what I had in mind, he said.
She cleared her throat. Details, she couldnt help but say, would be good.
He sat forward and propped his elbows on the table. First off, Id like to get something straight. Im not currently involved with anyone, and I take it, since you just recently returned to Harmony, that the same is true in your case.
It is, Jenna agreed. Not only wasnt she currently involved with a man, she had, in fact, been extremely careful for some time when it came to personal relationships with the opposite sex. The truth was, shed been burned once, badly, and she had no wish to repeat the experience. She dated on and off when it suited her, but live-in housekeepers didnt have much chance for a private life, and shed accepted the restrictions.
Then since were free in that regard, Ross continued, marrying each other could have some definite benefits for both of us.
She was slowly getting his drift. You mean that, rather than just a housekeeper, youd have a wife to take care of things around here.
Youre right, of course, he conceded, but more than that, I would have a mother for Caroline and Katie.
And thats important to you, she summed up, all at once sure of her words as she looked him straight in the eye and saw the clear reality of the matter reflected in his gaze.
It is, he confirmed. And with that quiet acknowledgment, he went on to explain how he felt his daughters needed a younger womans influence in their lives. I think its going to be even more important as they get closer to being teenagers, he added, and Carolines already on the brink.
Jenna could hardly disagree, remembering how her own mother had dealt so well with her four girls. I cant deny that the mother-daughter relationship is important. Having a large family meant that both my parents had to work to make ends meet while I was growing up, and I remember how I sometimes couldnt wait for my mother to get homefor more reasons than one, Ill admit, as I got older. As the eldest child, I was often in charge of the younger girls once I was big enough to take on some responsibility, and it wasnt always easy.
He nodded. Thats why I would prefer a stay-at-home mom for my kids, and in this case, living on my salary alone wouldnt pose a problem.
No, I expect not, Jenna replied. Which, she realized, was an understatement. Haywards had been among the more successful of Harmonys residents for many years. None had ever been truly wealthy, but comfortably well-off would certainly apply, especially when compared with such families as the Lorenzos. The city didnt have a bad side of town, so Jenna couldnt honestly say shed been born on the wrong side of the tracks from Ross Hayward. Nevertheless, a social gap remained between them. At least it would in some peoples eyes.
And now he was suggesting they date with the possible goal of marriage? Her eyes narrowed of their own accord. Are you sure you dont want to hire me as housekeeper?
For the first time in many minutes, his lips curved in a smile. Im sure. His gaze never wavered from hers.
And the position were currently discussing would be far more permanent, when you think about it. You would have a secure future, financially and otherwise.
And what about love?
Jenna didnt voice the silent question. She didnt have to. She knew this man loved his daughters; that was more than apparent. But his emotions werent involved in the bargain hed just put forward. How could they be when hed only really known her for a matter of days?
She was certain he didnt remember her or her family from their earlier years in Harmony. He had no clue as to how she had once mooned over him, right along with most of the girls her age. To him, she was a known quantity in the fact that she had a history here, but he didnt actually know her.
Of course, despite that, he obviously believed she had certain qualities that went hand in hand with being a good parent. And when it came to a wife
So what youre suggesting is a potential marriage of convenience? she asked very carefully.
Not exactly. He exhaled a short breath. It might be based somewhat on convenience, Ill admit, but Id want it to be a real marriage in every sense of the word.
There was no mistaking the candid look in his eyes. You mean, aphysical relationship.
Yes.
The single word had her pulse fluttering. I see.
But I wouldnt push you on that, he added. Even if we became husband and wife, Id give you however much time you needed to feel more comfortable with the situation.
I see, she repeated after another brief pause.
Ill also be up-front about the fact that Id like to have more children. Would you like some of your own?
Yes, she replied, this time without hesitation. She couldnt deny that she had hoped to have children someday.
Good, he told her. If we do decide to make that a, uh, joint project, it would be up to you to set the timetable, although Id personally prefer not to wait too long to have another child. He paused for a beat. For now, all Im asking is that you give this whole matter some thought.
Maybe youd better give it some more thought first, she found herself saying with blunt directness.
His sudden grin was wry. I promise you I havent gone off the deep end. Im one of the most sound and sensible of the Haywards. You can ask just about anyone in this town.
She didnt have to. Successful businessmen hardly made a habit of acting on a whim, and Jenna had to concede that the reasons hed given for getting married again were logical enough.
Have you considered how your daughters would feel about your remarrying? she asked.
His expression sobered. Im not saying that the change wouldnt have its rocky moments. There are bound to be some. But everything Ive done since the day they were born has been with their happiness in mind, believe me.
She believed him. In fact, his solemn tone made her wonder if he had already given up some of his own happiness in exchange for theirs. No, that was ridiculous, she told herself in the next breath. This man had been part of the ideal family. Whatever happiness hed lost had been stripped from him by fate when hed lost the perfect woman to share his life.
Jenna sighed to herself. How would that womans successor, no matter who she was, ever be able to compete with perfection?
SO YOU DIDNT get the housekeepers spot, but he wants to possibly offer you the job of wife. Peggy OBriens aquamarine eyes were wide, the flush of excitement on her cheeks nearly as red as the shiny curls brushing her shoulders. What in the world did you tell him?
I finally agreed to think about it. Jenna lounged back in a well-worn recliner set in one corner of a cozy family room, thinking that the OBrien home, a ranch-style house located on a cheerfully rowdy street in a middle-class neighborhood filled with children, was usually a place that promoted relaxation. Unfortunately it wasnt having that effect on her tonight.
Shed waited until Peggys five-year-old son, Tyler, had been put to bed and her loving husband, Jack, was puttering in his workshop off the garage before sharing that days startling events with her longtime friend from grammar school. When Peggy and Jack had invited her to stay with them during her job search, she had readily accepted.
You have to think about the chance to marry Ross Hayward? From her seat on a plump chintz sofa, Peggy crossed her arms over the front of the white T-shirt she wore with jeans and shook her head in wonder. Hes got everything going for him, Jen. Looks, smarts, an excellent reputation in the community and a good income coming in from his business. He is definite husband material and Peggy wiggled a reddish brown eyebrow the man is probably one heck of a lover, as well.
Hes also a man who isnt madly in love with me, Jenna reminded her. As Ive explained, this wouldnt be a traditional marriage. More one of convenience, in fact, than anything.
Hmm. Peggys gaze narrowed thoughtfully. Does that mean separate beds?
Jenna cleared her throat. Maybe in the beginning, she replied, but he frankly expects that to end at some point.
So the relationship wouldnt be minus the normal physical aspects, Peggy summed up. Probably not for too long, at any rate. Which means youd have the opportunity to find out exactly how good a lover he is.
At the moment Jenna couldnt imagine sharing a bed with the man whod rendered her speechless that day. I wont be finding out anything if he never actually proposes. Or if he does, for that matter, and I decide to decline.
So, let me get this straight, Peggy said. You actually think you can turn this guy down?
Because she was a long way from sure of the answer, Jenna countered with a question of her own. Why not? Most people, even the least romantic of them, would probably think twice about entering into this kind of marriage, you know. Plus theres the fact that Im me. And heshim.
If youre implying that you werent born high enough on the social ladder for him, Jen, my temper is going to get the better of me.
Peggys staunch defense of hertheirless-than-upscale roots had Jenna smiling a truly genuine smile for the first time in hours. No, Im not implying that, she said. But you cant argue the fact that Ross Hayward and I were born into very different kinds of families.
Peggy raised one delicately boned shoulder in a shrug. So what? Diversity isnt necessarily a bad thing. Could be the Haywards would even profit from some new blood being added to the mix.
They seem to be doing just fine with the mix they have. Jenna had to say it. As far back as I can recall, theyve been a good-looking bunch, and the two young girls I met today are certainly no exception.
Yes, angelically fair would describe both whenever Ive seen them around town, I agree. But then, how could they miss with the combination of genes from their father and Peggys voice trailed off as she steepled her fingers and tapped them together. I think were getting to the heart of the matter here, she continued after a second. Unless Im badly mistaken, your reluctance to consider the many merits of strolling down the aisle with the biggest catch in town has a lot to do with who he married first.
Busted, Jenna reflected with a rueful twist of her mouth. Okay, so maybe it does. But, my Lord, Peg, he had Cynthia Morgan to come home to every evening. And to go to bed with every night. You have to remember how she always lookedand acted.
Uh-huh. The stunning blonde with the polished poise most of our particular group would have given our eyeteeth to have at the time we were going through our awkward stage, Peggy said. Then again, she was older than we were.
Dont kid yourself, Jenna advised. Cynthia never had an awkward stage. She probably entered the world holding her tiny head high and greeting the doctor who delivered her with a gracious smile.
And youre thinking that shed be a hard act to follow, Peggy surmised with a shrewd glance.
Jenna could hardly deny it. Sure, I am. What woman who knew her could resist thinking along those lines?
Maybe nonebut youre the woman hes at least considering making wife number two, Peggy reminded her. And not because hed have any trouble finding someone else to wear his ring if he wanted to put the least bit effort into it, as we both know. Instead, though, hes apparently setting his sights on you. Whatever his reasons, that has to count for something.
Yes, it does, Jenna acknowledged. Truth be told, she couldnt help feeling flattered. Not that it would be wise to get too caught up in that feeling, her more practical side told her. Still, no matter what it said, her pulse picked up a beat every time her mind drifted back to that afternoon.
To him. You can handle whatever you have to if you take that walk down the aisle, Peggy declared, regaining Jennas attention. Ross Hayward isnt the only one who has a lot going for him.
Oh, if the whole thing ever came to pass, I can deal with the cooking and housekeeping part, Jenna said with confidence, although honesty forced her to admit, privately anyway, that Myra Hastings might not be an easy act to follow, either. Not when it came to maintaining a spotless house decorated mainly in whiteor as much of it as Jenna had seen, anyway.
You can handle the mothering part, too, Peggy assured her. You not only helped raise your sisters, but from what you tell me, youve had recent experience riding herd on kids, as well. Heaven knows, you already have Tyler wrapped around your finger. You didnt scream when he pulled out the fake spider that looks real enough, goodness knows. Its made you tops on his list.
Hes a great kid, Jenna pronounced without hesitation, and fully meant it.
Peggy grinned a plainly proud grin at that compliment to her offspring. Thanks. Watching you with him, its easy to see that you like children, and Ill bet they generally like you, which goes a long way toward whats needed to make a good mother, at least as far as Im concerned.
Jenna mulled that over for a second. I guess you have a point there. To me, caring about kidsnot just caring for their needshas to be a prime ingredient in what makes a good mother. And stepmother, too, she added firmly.
I dont see you as a wicked one, thats for sure, Peggy murmured with a twinkle in her eye.
But would the two girls shed met hours earlier come to view her in that light? Jenna knew that was the real question. There might well be rocky times ahead in that area, as their father had frankly conceded. Nevertheless, as hed also contended, they would ultimately benefit from having a younger woman in their lives. It by no means had to be her, Jenna readily admitted, but having someone around to fill that role would be a plus.
Peggy sat forward. And now we come to the wife part.
Yes, well. Jenna ran her tongue around her teeth. That particular subject is far from clear at the moment.
You dont have to be Cynthia, Peggy assured her, reading her like a book. You just have to be you.
I can only be me, Jenna replied, realizing the truth of that. When all was said and done, she was who she was, and shed been comfortable with that for some time. Nonetheless, she also recognized that who she was might suffer in comparison to what many would consider a sterling example of perfect womanhood.
Jenna Lorenzo was by no stretch of the imagination perfect.
So are you at least going to give this whole thing some real thought? Peggy asked.
I suppose Ill have to, Jenna said with a wry curve of her lips, because the man in question has already talked me into going out with him for dinner on Friday night.
Peggys grin came back full force, lighting up her elfin face. Well, if nothing else, youll be going out on a date with Ross Hayward. At one point in my life, I would have stood on my head and sung every rowdy rock tune I knewbackwardto be able to do the same.
Jenna had to laugh. Me, too, as well you know.
But that was long ago, and the upcoming event wasnt precisely the normal kind of first date. It wouldnt be a casual get-to-know-you occasion. Or only on the surface, perhaps. Underneath, far more serious matters were in the balance, ones that would demand answers before too long.
With Myra Hastings leaving in a matter of weeks, Ross Hayward had no choice but to make some arrangements. He would either be hiring another housekeeperwhich wouldnt be her, Jenna knew. Or hed be taking a wifewhich might be her.
In fact, he seemed more than willing to consider her for the latter position. The woman shed become realized it was so, even if the girl who would always remain a part of her still couldnt quite believe it.
HE WAS RUSTY at this dating business.
Ross couldnt help but acknowledge that truth as he pulled out a chair for Jenna at one of the quieter eating spots in Harmony. Hed been out of college for only months the last time hed ventured on a date as a single man. Not long afterward, hed become a husband, and then years later, a widower with little desire to ask any female out.
Nevertheless, despite his lengthy break from the dating scene, the Mountain Meadows Caf had seemed like a good bet for tonight. Not as starchy as the dining room at the Founders Club, where he continued to maintain a membership yet seldom visited these days. And not as casual as the diner where hed chosen to conduct a job interview with the woman seated across from him, her deep burgundy evening suit providing a colorful contrast to both his own charcoal-brown suit and the pale tablecloth.
This is nice, she said, glancing around. Her small ruby earrings sparkled in the flickering glow of the single candle resting in the center of the table.
Again she wore her hair caught back in a thick coil at the nape of her neck. And again he wondered how it would look flowing like a dark waterfall down her back.
He also had to wonder if he would ever find out. If he would ever get the chance the run his hands through those gleaming strands. If
Ross took in a breath and reined in his wandering thoughts. The view is one of the best around, he told his companion.
It has to be. Jenna studied a picture-postcard scene through the wall of clear windows beside her. Even in the growing darkness, enough light remained to make out the tall pines dotting the side of a low mountain.
Would you like a cocktail or some wine to start things off? he asked.
She opted for white wine, and he ordered a bottle of Chardonnay when the young waiter approached. Hed decided to join her despite the fact that a premium brand of Scotch on the rocks was his usual drink, one a long line of Hayward men had favored. Even his father, he thought, hadnt broken with tradition there.
Silence fell between them on the waiters departure, as if neither knew exactly what to say next, until Ross picked up his menu and offered some comments on meals hed enjoyed at the Mountain Meadows in the past.
I dont think you can go wrong with any of the fish selections, he said. The last time I was here, I had the grilled salmon and certainly didnt regret it.
As it happens, I like fish. Jenna studied her menu. Even tuna fish is a hit with me. I used to have to fight a cat I once had for it. I swear Bingo had a sixth sense that brought him running every time I opened a can, no matter how quietly.
Was that when you lived in Nevada?
Jenna looked up and hesitated for a brief moment. Yes. What made you think that might be the case?
He lifted one shoulder in an offhand shrug. Bingo, cards, gambling. They seem to fit.
I suppose so. She closed her menu. Im going to take your recommendation and try the salmon.
He decided on the pan-fried trout and again searched for a subject of conversation once the wine appeared and their orders were taken. He could have asked Jenna more about her days in Nevadawould have, if he hadnt noted how shed put a subtle yet swift end to the earlier conversational turn.
A sign that shed rather not discuss that particular time in her life? Could be, he concluded, mindful of the fact that there were times in his own life he had no wish to discuss, either.
He finally settled on food as a safe bet. What do you like to cook?
Pasta is one of my favorites. Jenna sipped her wine. Goodness knows, I ate enough of it when I was a kid. My mother makes the best red sauce ever. I learned from watching her, so Im pretty good at it myself. She paused. Can you cook?
Not really. Then again, my mother never had a great deal of interest in that area, either.
She met his gaze. I assume you had a housekeeper to take care of kitchen duties when you were growing up.
Uh-huh. We had several over the years, as a matter of fact. But none of them ever looked like you, Ross added to himself.
And after you got married?
He ran a long finger down the smooth stem of his glass. Cynthia preferred to run her own household, he said. And then it was his turn to change the subject, because his former marriage was one of the things hed just as soon not discuss. How do you like the wine?
Whether conscious of it or not, Jenna returned his earlier favor by readily going along with the switch in topics. Its excellent. She glanced down at her clear goblet and the golden liquid it held. Very smooth.
As the evening continued, Ross couldnt help but wish he were half as smooth when it came to wining and dining a woman. But all in all, it wasnt going too badly, he decided when theyd done justice to two good meals and lingered over after-dinner coffee. Thankfully theyd found one subject that seemed to suit them both when it came to maintaining a steady flow of conversation, and that was Harmony itself.
It almostbut not quitekept his thoughts from drifting to something hed been asking himself in the back of his mind since halfway through dinner.
When they arrived back at the house where Jenna was staying, should he kiss her good-night?
Ross cleared his throat. Ill never forget when we had the record snowfall, he said in another bid to silence the nagging question for which he had no firm answer. I must have been around twelve, and I remember standing chest-high in one of the drifts.
Jenna sipped her coffee. That was the year it was nearly over my head in spots.
And did you build the biggest snowman you could, as I did?
Mmm-hmm. My sisters and I made fast work of it, too, since snow seldom lasted for long here. We tied a bright red scarf around his neck, as I recall, and thought he looked very dashinguntil he started to lean to one side and promptly fell over. Then we consoled ourselves with a snowball fight.
I recall a few of those myself, he told her. Being an only child, I relied on my friends and a cousin around my age to provide a satisfying battle. We usually wound up half burying each other in the stuff.
Jenna laughed, and found that it felt good. Somehow the thought of very young Ross Hayward covered from tip to toe with snow put her more at ease. It wasnt like her to let her nerves rule, which they mostly had since hed arrived on the OBrien doorstep to pick her up. She usually had a much better hold on them.
Certainly her escort had done nothing to foil her efforts in that respect, either. This might not be quite the normal version of a first date, but so far hed made no reference to the startling suggestion hed come up with days earlier. She could only be thankful that he hadnt brought it up again, because at this point she was still a long way from sure how she would respond if he actually wound up proposing.
At the moment it was far easier to put herself to the task of being a genial companion. With that in mind she kept up her end of a casual conversation, which remained centered on the past as they talked about the grammar school theyd attended and the first-grade teacher whod taught several generations of the citys residents.
I havent seen Miss Hester since I got back, Jenna said. I wonder if shed remember me.
My guess is she would, Ross replied. Although shes over eighty now, shes still as sharp as a tack. I think she really runs half the town, although no one will admit it.
That doesnt surprise me. I could never get away with anything with her, Jenna confessed.
He leaned back in his chair. Neither could I, despite the fact that were related, at least through marriage.
Now Jenna was surprised. You are?
Yes. My grandfather married Hester Goodbodys sister.
Harmony was indeed, she thought, a small community. I do know that your grandfather was mayor at one time.
Thats right. And, he added, theres a possibility that Ill be running for that office, too, provided our current mayor decides not to run for reelection.
Would you really want to do that? she had to ask, again surprised. Hed seemed content with his business career.
My grandfather would have wanted it, he told her.
But that wasnt the question shed asked, Jenna noted.
She also noticed the lack of any mention of his father. And maybe that wasnt quite so surprising. Shed heard about the events that had taken place during the time shed been away. As far as her friend Peggy knew, the distinguished-looking man Jenna had little trouble recalling hadnt set foot in Harmony since hed abruptly walked out on his wife in favor of, as rumor had it, a far different lifestyle in California. As to the woman hed left behind, she had immediately filed for divorce and had refused to discuss the subject in public right up to her death.
It wasnt long before Ross paid the check and took a last sip of his coffee. Ready to go?
Jenna nodded and gave herself a mental pat on the back. Shed relaxed and had even managed to enjoy herself.
As he had before, Ross steered them both through the cheerful maze of small, candle-lit tables with a light grasp on her elbow. And as before, Jenna felt the barest grip of his long fingers right down to her toes. So much for relaxation, she reflected as sheer awareness had her shoulders tensing once more.
Sudden thoughts of how the evening might end surfaced as they left the restaurant and walked across the parking lot to her escorts late-model blue sedan. If this were an ordinary first date, Jenna knew that something she hadnt considered until now could well be taken as a fitting way to wind things up.
A kissa brief kisswas almost customary.
Then again, even if this were an ordinary date, could the prospect of locking lips, even briefly, with Ross Hayward ever be judged an everyday average event? Not hardly, she acknowledged to herself. Not by you.
But then, he might not even be considering a kiss.
HE WAS GOING FOR IT. Or he was if he got the chance. If she didnt slip away from him and head inside the minute they arrived at their destination, Ross thought as they started down a short walkway where a childs tricycle was parked on one side of the path.
Nice night, he said, keeping his voice low as he glanced up at a black sky sprinkled with stars.
Yes, was her soft reply.
Cool but pleasant.
Yes, she said one more time as they reached a plain oak door lit by a small overhead lamp. She looked up at him and held out her right hand. Well, thank you again for din
Id like to kiss you. The blunt words were out before he even considered the tone of them. But he wouldnt call them back if he could have. If he hadnt said something, hed probably be looking at that door closing behind her in a matter of moments.
When she just stared at him, brown eyes gleaming in the darkness, he cleared his throat. Given the situation, I think we should find out what it would be like.
Oh.
I mean, it seems logical. Right, and physical attraction has nothing to do with it, a more candid part of him mocked. He ignored it. That way, well have a better basis to, ah, make our decision.
She studied him for a silent second. So you havent reconsidered? Youre still thinking about marriage?
I am, he assured her. And Im still of the opinion that, if we decide to go through with it, it would have benefits for both of us. But right now, Id just like to kiss you. May I?
She released a short breath. Okay.
The word was scarcely out when he lifted one hand to cup her chin. Then he lowered his mouth to hers, taking in her subtle floral scent and reminding himself that this was only a kiss. It wouldntcouldntlead to greater intimacy. Whether there would even be an opportunity for any real body-to-body, skin-to-skin intimacy between them remained to be seen.
But that didnt mean he couldnt savor the moment. And he did exactly that as he deepened the kiss just slightly, just enough to discover that hed like to take it deeper still, much deeper. Instead he made himself settle for a gentle exploration of a mouth far softer than his own. As he lingered, his blood heated despite the cool breeze, and in a matter of seconds he had to work at keeping an invisible fist tight on his control, denying feet ready to take a last step to get even closer and hands that wanted to wander. All of him, in fact, wanted many things, none of which he could have.
Which he would never have, not with Jenna, unless he became her lover. No, unless he became her husband.
He needed, he reminded himself, a wife.
At last he forced himself to lift his head and to drop the hand still cupped around a silky-smooth chin. Inhaling a rough surge of air, he took a brief step back to let his senses clear. It was hard to believe that a kiss, even an undeniably potent one, had been enough to have him making up his mind about something that would change the course of his life. But it had.
I know youre probably not ready to hear this, he said with a huskiness he couldnt hide, but Im prepared to suggest that we take thisall the way.
Again Jenna stared up at him, her own breathing far from even. All the way? she repeated carefully.
To the altar.
There, it was out. And he found he had no regrets. Hed made his choice, although the woman still pinned under his gaze needed some time to make hers. That was plain enough by the way her eyes had gone wide with what might have been shock.
You dont have to say anything now, he told her. Ill call you in a day or two so we can make plans for another date and talk about it more.
Jenna merely nodded once in reply. As she let herself into the house, her escort turned and left with a final wave. Moments later she was inside, leaning against the door shed closed behind her.
She could still feel the imprint of his mouth on hers. Still taste the pure, tangy maleness of his questing tongue. Still smell the light, woodsy scent of his cologne. StillHeavens, she was still tingling all over.
Peggy poked her head out of the doorway to the family room. Good grief, what happened to you?
What? Jenna blinked.
That was my question, friend. Peggy walked down the narrow hall. What in the world happened? You look like youve been knocked for a loop.
Jenna took a steadying breath. Imfine.
Sure, and Im a rock star. Peggy crossed her arms over the front of her T-shirt. Is Ross Hayward responsible for that stunned expression on your face?
I suppose so, Jenna had to concede.
What did the man do?
He, uh, kissed me. Right before he floored me by proposing on our first date.
But she was keeping that last fact to herself for now, Jenna decided. He really had asked her to marry him, hadnt he? Yes, although he hadnt actually done it in the most traditional of manners, his meaning had been clear.
And thats the effect his chiseled lips have on the female half of the population? Peggys brows climbed. Im impressed. She paused to take another survey of her friend. If hes looking anywhere near as staggered as you are, wedding bells could be in your immediate future.
Jenna pushed away from the door and was grateful to find that her knees were no longer in danger of folding. Only if I agree to go along with it, she managed to counter.
Peggy shook her head over that statement. I think youre a goner, Jen. If he can have you looking like that with no more than a kiss, how can you turn him down?
Choosing to duck a question she knew shed have to face far sooner than she expected, Jenna only shrugged in reply. Im heading off to bed, she said as the need to be alone grew.
All right, see you in the morning. Peggy stepped aside. After that stunning experience, youll probably have some terrific dreams, she added with a sly smile.
But that prediction proved to be wrong, and later that night Jenna was wishing she actually could dreamabout anythingas she stared up at the ceiling in the small guest bedroom. At least it would mean she had finally fallen asleep. It seemed that as hard as she tried to shut it down, her mind remained on full alert and filled with questions.
What she had to do to win any prospect of peace was to try to come to some conclusions, she decided at last.
So, did she really want a husband? she asked herself. She had to admit that shed always expected when she was growing up to have one at some point. Her parents happy marriage had been a wonderful example.
But did she want that husband to be Ross Hayward, former Golden Boy and possible future mayor?
Well, as the man himself had pointed out days earlier, their marriage would provide her with financial security. Which wasnt a matter she could take lightly, Jenna knew, after growing up in a household where money was usually scarce.
And, as he also hadnt hesitated to mention, it would give her children. Another thing she couldnt take lightly, because shed spoken no more than the truth when shed told him that she wanted children.
The problem was that she had learned something tonight. Something that had been made plain to her even before Ross, who was obviously a man of action, had rendered her speechless once again by staring down at her with frank directness and suggesting that they take it all the wayto the altar.
Up until hours ago she had privately skirted the issue of an intimate relationship with Ross and how it might affect her. Now she knew that what he could make her feel as a woman was far more powerful than any teenage crush. Even if they became husband and wife, it wouldnt be easy for her to allow it to become a real marriage in every sense, not when it could lead to her coming to care too much for him. Because if that happened and he wasnt able to return her feelings as time passed, her heart would be on the lineas it already had been in another relationship, with far from happy results.
So what did she do now?
You take a chance, an inner voice told her, because you cant turn him down, not when theres at least hope that it could someday become a genuinely caring marriage on both sides.
Jenna sighed the softest of sighs, somehow, deep at the core of her, recognizing that silent statement as the simple truth. She could toss and turn for still more hours on end, even continue to rack her brain for days, but it all came down to one undeniable fact.
Both the starry-eyed girl shed once been who had viewed an all-too-attractive Hayward male from a distance, and the levelheaded woman shed become who had just experienced the impact of his closeness, simply couldnt say no. Not to him.
So the next move was hers, she knew, and there was no point in waiting for the man in her thoughts to call. Instead she would place a call herself. And then she would say words that would change her life forever.
As impossible as it would have seemed only a short time ago, Jenna Lorenzo was going to marry Ross Hayward.
Chapter Three
So youre really going through with this? Adam Lassiter asked as he faced Ross across the gleaming surface of a large, dark walnut desk.
I am, trust me. Ross reclined in his tan leather swivel chair. As the rest of his corner-office furnishings, it was practical, comfortable and modern in designall of which his current guest ignored in favor of frankly studying him.
The engagement announcement had been printed in the local paper that morning, and his phone had predictably rung off the hook until hed given in to an urge for a little peace and quiet and asked his assistant to hold his calls for a while. Then his tall, dark and nattily dressed cousin had arrived on the scene.
Days earlier Ross had called to notify some closer family members before the news became public, which had led to Adams unexpected appearance. In fact, the man who made an excellent living as a hot-shot business consultant in the Phoenix area had driven a considerable distance to come to Harmony.
Adam braced elbows covered by the well-tailored jacket of his steel-gray suit on the arms of a beige tweed visitors chair. I told the Lassiters when you asked me to be your best man that if you said you were going to do it, it was a good bet you would. But they refused to believe it until I rescheduled several appointments so I could come here and look you in the eye.
Uh-huh. Ross hid a smile. And how is my aunt Doris?
Adams grimace was swift and wry. Okay, so maybe my mother was the chief skeptic. The truth is that if she wasnt up to her elegant neck in getting things ready for a major charity auction back in Scottsdale, shed probably be here instead of me.
I assume, Ross said, that Ill see her at the wedding.
His grimace turning to a grin, Adam replied, I dont think wild horses could keep her away, especially when the bride is somewhat of a mystery woman. He paused for a beat. When do the invitations go out?
Soon. As I told everyone, the wedding is the last Saturday of this month.
Adam frowned. Its none of my business, Ill admit, but I have to wonder why the rush.
Why not? You know I dont hesitate over most things once Ive made up my mind, Ross said in the mildest of tones.
And that was all hed say on the subject. The bargain hed made with his future wife was, as far as he was concerned, private. Only a few people knew that his intended bride had first applied for a housekeepers position, and he saw little reason to spread the word. No, he was keeping mum on that score, even though he and this particular cousin were near the same age and had been especially close until Doris Hayward Lassiter had gone along with her husbands plan to achieve bigger and better things in the corporate worldand its various society connectionsby moving their family to a larger city.
Hmm. Adam lifted a hand and ran it through his expertly cut hair. I suppose even the best man doesnt get to meet the mystery lady until the big day.
It wont be long, Ross assured him, keeping his tone mild.
Silence reigned for a moment. How are Caroline and Katie taking the news? Adam ventured at last with a probing look.
Ross suspected the question held more genuine concern than his normally unruffled relative usually displayed. Maybe because Adam had a young child of his own, a son he saw mainly during the summers since the boy lived back east with Adams ex-wife.
It was a surprise, Ross acknowledged, but they seem to be dealing with it as well as can be expected.
Maybe he would have liked at least a bit more enthusiasm on their part, he reflected, but he could readily understand why theyd both been unusually quiet since hed sat them down and told them as gently yet straightforwardly as possible about his plans after Jenna had called. Hed been more than a little surprised himself, he couldnt deny, when shed agreed to marry him without much debate. But surprises aside, things would settle down and his daughters would be grateful to have her in their lives. It was just a matter of time.
As for himself, he was damned grateful to have her in his life, and for more reasons than one after the potent first kiss theyd shared. So far, it was the only real kiss circumstances had allowed, but he had expectations of getting more, much more. Not that he hadnt meant it when hed said he wouldnt press her. Still, he hoped he wouldnt have to wait too long to get everything he wantedbecause he wanted it all.
You look just a tad on the eager side, cuz. Adams soft laugh came from low in his throat. This woman youre keeping under wraps must be something.
Ross lifted a brow. I suppose you could say that.
Aha. No further explanation required. I read you.
You always were quick on the uptake, cuz, Ross countered, repeating the nickname theyd once used on a regular basis to refer to each other.
Adam rose to his feet. Well, Ill report back to the family and tell them that things are still on track. Is it going to be a big wedding?
Ross got up and came around his desk. Its already bigger than we initially planned on, he said as he walked his cousin to the door, but it wont be too big.
IT WAS GETTING BIGGER every day, Jenna reflected with a rueful twist of her lips as she addressed a stack of envelopes that would hold thick, ecru-colored cards edged with a scalloped border. With desktop publishing, it was hardly astounding that professional-looking invitations could be produced so quickly, but who would have thought that one of the most popularif by no means the grandestspots in town to get married would be available for a Saturday event on such short notice? Yet that had indeed been the case, as her friend Peggy had wasted no time in finding out, and after that discovery the guest list had rapidly multiplied.
Like rabbits, Jenna thought.
Her family was coming, of course. Theyd plainly been startledor maybe downright amazedat the news when shed placed a call to Nevada, but they would be here. At least her parents and youngest sister would make it. Both of her other sisters simply couldnt. One was attending chefs school in Europe after winning a scholarship, and the other was due to have her first child only days after the wedding.
The brides family was merely the start, however. Even the grooms was just the tip of the iceberg.
Besides his daughters, Ross had no immediate family still livingexcept for his father, whom he had firmly declined to invite. But Harmony was home to several more distantly related Haywards, plus many others who considered themselves longtime friends of the family. And, as it turned out, a whole bunch of them wanted to come.
They all wanted to attend a wedding that wasnt quite the average version of the traditional celebration. Except none of the people primed to celebrate knew that.
Why couldnt we have just been married at the courthouse as wed first thought and be done with it? Jenna mumbled to herself as the phone on the kitchen counter rang. With Peggy and Jack working and their son in school, it was up to their houseguest to answer, so she rose from the square oak table set in one corner of the room and lifted the receiver. OBrien residence.
Hows it going? a deep voice asked.
As usual, her pulse picked up a beat in response. Jenna wondered how much time would pass before it remained comfortably steady in reaction to what was an increasingly familiar, if undeniably pure male, sound. After all, she and Ross had not only talked on the phone several times in recent days, theyd also seen each other most evenings, mainly in the company of his daughters.
Im getting writers cramp, she complained half-heartedly as she leaned against the counter. Are you sure we cant conveniently forget these invitations and sneak off to the courthouse instead?
His chuckle was low and amused. Ill admit things seem to have snowballed, but we can handle it.
Well, he could handle it, Jenna knew, at least when it came to the extra expense. Ross had already assured her that he could afford it. He had originally been determined to pay for everything, and hed mostly had his way. Shed only insisted on buying her own wedding outfit, and hed given in on that point. Their first compromise, she thought.
Wondering how many more theyd be called upon to make in the future, she said, Okay, so we cant sneak off. Ill just keep writing.
Dont forget that were taking Caroline and Katie out for pizza tonight.
Im looking forward to it, Jenna replied, and meant it. Maybe this time, she thought, shed even be successful at getting Rosss daughters to do more than manage a short response to a direct question while aiming wary glances her way. Before much longer she would be caring for them on a day-to-day basis. She had to hope they would have become better acquainted by then. Katie, with a chattiness that had seemed to come naturally on the day theyd first met, probably wouldnt hold back for long before allowing a friendlier relationship to develop. Not too long, at any rate. But Caroline
A fleeting frown crossed Jennas brow. She wished she felt more confident that problems didnt lie ahead there. Not that Caroline had ever said anything in the least troubling. No, Rosss eldest child had impeccable manners. Nonetheless, her calm gaze had displayed an unmistakable coolness on the few occasions when her eyes had actually met those of the woman about to become her stepmother. But that didnt mean Jenna planned to stop watching for a hint of something warmer to form.
Ill concentrate on pumping up my appetite so I can tackle my share of the pizza, she added, determined to remain optimistic when it came to the children.
Okay, well pick you up at six. Ross paused for a moment. Any progress on the wedding outfit?
Im going shopping tomorrow. Again, she might have added. At the moment she was torn between a knee-length, cream-colored dress she could wear on other occasions and a floor-length model made of rosy silk that wouldnt be as practical in the long run. Shed already tried on both at one of Harmonys downtown boutiques. Neither was expensive enough to give her much pause, but she hadnt been able to make a final choice.
Dont worry, she told him, Ill show up wearing something appropriate. If I didnt, my father, who can be a stickler for the proprieties when he wants to, would refuse to walk me down the aisle.
Then I take it youll be decked out in more than a paper bag.
That had Jenna laughing out loud. Thankfully, while he could still rattle her with a casual touch, and far too easily as far as her nerves were concerned, he also had a sense of humor she had no trouble enjoying. My father will insist on it, she assured him with mock gravity.
It won her another low chuckle. He sounds like a sensible man. Im looking forward to meeting your family.
She could have responded in kindbut didnt. The truth was, she could have done without meeting a whole group of Rosss relatives at the same time, especially when many of them had to be wondering about the hasty marriage.
Im sure the Lorenzos cant wait to meet you, she said instead.
If he noticed the lack of any mention of his own family, Ross made no comment, and the conversation ended seconds later.
Before Jenna could resume her seat at the table, however, the front doorbell rang. She smoothed a hand down the front of the oversize teal sweatshirt she wore with matching cotton pants and went to answer, walking with characteristic purpose. She didnt amble often, certainly not when there was work to be done, and she still had those invitations to finish.
Opening the door, she found someone standing there who looked much the same at eighty as she had back when Jenna had been a member of her first-grade class. Hester Goodbodys silver hair might be even more wispy now, but nothing had dimmed the good-natured intelligence gleaming in a pair of memorable blue eyes framed by gold-rimmed glasses.
Hello, Jenna, the older woman said with a soft smile.
Jenna had to smile herself as she took a step back. Its great to see you, Miss Hester. Please come in.
As she shut the door behind them, Jenna noticed for the first time that her visitor had a long cloth garment bag draped over one slender arm clad in a skillfully crocheted sweater.
I wont be staying long, Miss Hester said. I know you must have many things still to do for the wedding.
Jenna led the way into a small living room that didnt seem to get much use in the OBrien household. Please sit down.
Accepting the invitation, Hester Goodbody sat on the beige brocade sofa and placed the garment bag beside her. Youve grown into a fine-looking young woman, she said as Jenna sank into a nearby chair.
Fine-lookingnot beautiful. Jenna didnt miss the distinction. Trust Miss Hester to come down on the side of simple truth.
I hope I look half as wonderful as you do years from now, she replied with total honesty.
The veteran teacher studied her for a second. You will. You have excellent bone structure, and nothing withstands the test of time as well as good bones. She paused. I assume that good behavior has also won out with you.
Jenna rolled her eyes, well up to speed on the reason for that comment. Yes, maam. Ive learned to be a lady, although I imagine you doubted youd ever see the day.
You certainly could be a scamp, but a likeable one with so much zest for life. The small features of the older womans face settled into more serious lines as she continued. Which is why Im delighted that youre marrying Ross. Ill think youll be good for him.
Good for him? Although far from certain on that point, Jenna was positive of one thing. I intend to be the best wife I can, she said with determination.
Im glad to hear it. A thoughtful frown creased Miss Hesters finely lined brow. Ross seldom misbehaved in school, you know. It might be that he felt he had the Hayward name to uphold, and if that was the case, I suspect it was more of a burden than most people realized.
I suppose you could be right, Jenna conceded after a moments consideration. Not many would easily note a downside to being a member of a well-respected family, but the sharp-eyed teacher who probably saw more than most just might have a point.
Anyway, Miss Hester said, I, for one, am pleased with the coming marriage, although from what I understand youre having a little trouble deciding what to wear for the occasion.
Jenna didnt ask how that understanding had come about. News traveled fast in small cities. She remembered that well from her earlier days in Harmony. Given Hester Goodbodys long-standing residency, this woman probably had more friendsand thereby sources of informationthan anyone in town.
Ive narrowed it down to two choices, Jenna told her. I plan to take another look tomorrow and make up my mind.
Miss Hester sat forward. I have a third alternative. She patted the garment bag with one thin hand. Im hoping youll give it some consideration.
And that was how Jenna found herself viewing a wedding gown made of delicate ivory lace moments later. Long-sleeved and high-necked, it was snugly fitted through the bodice, with a narrow skirt that fell straight from the waist. A floor-length satin slip in the same ivory shade peaked through the lacy fabric and provided a subtle hint of sheen.
It was my sisters, Miss Hester explained. She was taller than I amabout your height, in fact. And its close to the same size as those dresses you tried on.
Jenna arched a brow, unable to resist the urge to tease. Which you just happened to hear about?
No, which I made it my business to hear about, Miss Hester cheerfully confessed. My sister wore this dress when she married Rosss grandfather, but both her daughter and her sons bride, Rosss mother, chose not to wear it for their own weddings. So she added it to some other belongings she left me when she passed away.
And what about another bride?
Jennas silent question was answered in the next breath. Rosss late wife also preferred to go with a newer style, Miss Hester said, which may have been a prudent decision on her part. This gown would have had to be altered extensively, given that Cynthia was taller than average and very slim. And I must say that she was a vision in pure white during the summer ceremony held on the outdoor terrace of the Founders Club. With your creamier skin tones, however, I believe ivory would better suit you, she told Jenna, and demonstrated the truth of that by holding a lacy sleeve up to her former pupils hand.
Yes, the color probably would be better for me. Jenna couldnt deny what seemed so evident as the delicate fabric brushed across her fingers. But how could she explain that the chance to wear what could be considered a Hayward family heirloom was something shed never expected to be offered? And maybe never would have been offered, she thought, if Miss Hester knew the circumstances behind the upcoming marriage.
I wasnt, Jenna said as diplomatically as possible, planning on wearing a traditional wedding gown.
Nevertheless, it is lovely, isnt it? the other woman wasted no time in asking.
Yes. Jenna could hardly contend otherwise. The gown was indeed lovely, and somehow the fact that it was from another era only added to its gracious beauty.
Miss Hester straightened to her full height, which wasnt very high. I would consider it both a favor and an honor if you would wear it.
Looking into sea-shaded eyes that plainly reflected the truth of that solemn statement, Jenna felt herself wavering. She did love the gown. And so would her mother, who hadnt been able to afford more than a simple dress when shed been married. Plus there was the fact that it probably wouldnt have to be altered. She could make sure no damage was done and give it back as shed received it.
All right, she said at last. Ill borrow itjust for that day.
No, youll pass it along as I did, her companion countered in a no-nonsense tone, suddenly sounding exactly like the teacher Jenna had once known. And Ill get my reward from the sight of a young mans face as he watches you walk down the aisle. All I ask, she added, is that you keep it a secret until then.
Jenna knew when she was licked. All right, Miss Hester, whatever you say.
A sudden sparkle lit in Hester Goodbodys gaze, making her look far younger than her years. Spoken, she declared with quiet satisfaction, like a star member of my first-grade class.
THE WEDDING COTTAGE had been the site of countless Harmony nuptials over the years. Nestled in the center of a large corner lot on a peaceful street, the two-story frame house painted a mossy green was snugly surrounded by a well-tended garden. There, a wealth of fall flowers dominated the picture, and tall, leafy trees poised on the brink of their annual autumn transformation chimed in to produce a bright scene despite the layer of thin clouds hiding the late-afternoon sun.
Accompanied by his best man, Ross took in the sights around him as he made his way from an adjacent parking lot down a winding sidewalk leading to a side door reserved for the lesser members of the wedding party, which at the moment included the groom. He knew full well that until the ceremony started, the bride was the one who countedand with that thought in mind, he had to wonder how Jenna was making out. He hadnt spoken to her since the evening before when he and his daughters had met her family over a quiet dinner hosted by the Lorenzos. Adam, whod arrived in town a day earlier than the rest of the Lassiters, had joined them.
Nervous, cuz? Adam asked as they settled themselves in a small side room. Both men wore dark suits, white shirts, subtly striped ties, and had a tiny red rosebud stuck in the buttonhole of their jackets.
I was more on edge last night, Ross admitted, but I think I passed the test.
With flying colors, in my opinion, Adam remarked. Your about-to-be in-laws are a nice bunch, and they were obviously thrilled with the girls.
But were his girls thrilled with them? Ross couldnt honestly say one way or the other. At least Katie had been more talkative than in recent weeks, and he supposed hed take that as a good sign.
The maid of honor is quite a looker, too, Adam continued. Too bad shes too young for me.
Glad you recognize that, Ross said. Joe Lorenzo might not look kindly on any serious flirting with his youngest child, and as big as he is, a smart man probably wouldnt test it.
Hmm. At least I got to meet the mystery woman. And I have to say youve got good taste. Theres definitely something about her that stirs the juices. I mean, Adam added hastily at Rosss lifted brow, my juices might get stirred if she wasnt well on her way to being your wife.
Deciding to be satisfied with that concession, Ross looked in a mirror placed on a narrow wall sporting printed wallpaper in masculine shades of brown. He straightened a tie that didnt need straightening and wondered how many grooms had stood where he was standing. The last time he himself had been a groom cooling his heels in another room, his father had been his best man. Now, it was hard to even imagine that.
Just then, Judge Reynolds, a longtime friend of the Hayward clan, poked his graying head into the room. Time to take your places, gentlemen, he said in his usual courteous fashion. The bride and her party have arrived.
Adam grinned, displaying a handsome set of teeth. Showtime, cuz.
It wasnt long before both men stood beside the judge at one end of a large room decorated in a garden theme as though it were an extension of its outdoor surroundings. Directly in front of them, a straight walkway displaying a length of floral-print carpeting led to an arched doorway, with long rows of wicker chairs painted a leafy green lining both sides of the aisle.
The room itself was filled with familiar faces, and the most familiar of all to Ross belonged to his daughters, who sat next to Adams parents in the first row. He smiled at them, and Katie, dressed in cheery yellow, managed a tiny one in return. Caroline, who was partial to quieter shades of blue and wore it today, nodded her head, but didnt smile. In contrast, Hester Goodbody, looking well pleased with the days events, met his fleeting glance with a wide curve of her thin lips from her seat behind the children.
Music began to swell from a small organ near the rear of the room, and then a shapely brunette barely over twenty appeared in the doorway wearing a floor-length dress of dusky-rose silk. A matching hair ribbon held back Sophie Lorenzos cap of short curls. An appealing grin broke through as she approached the men who awaited her, prompting Adam to lean over to his cousin and mutter, Are you sure shes too young for me?
Before Ross could reply, the wedding march started, right along with a sea of whispers as the guests got to their feet. Even though he couldnt make out the words, Ross drew his own conclusions. Those who hadnt yet met Jenna were most likely speculating about what she looked like, and those who had were probably wondering how shed be dressed for the occasion.
He had to admit to being curious himself on that last point. Shed only told him that shed settled on something and hadnt gone into details.
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